Qasr al-Bint | Petra

Information

Landmark: Qasr al-Bint
City: Petra
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Qasr al-Bint, Petra, Jordan, Asia

Qasr al-Bint is the primary temple of the ancient city of Petra, located at the western terminus of the Colonnaded Street. It stands as the only significant freestanding masonry structure in a city dominated by rock-cut architecture.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is a nearly square building measuring 32 meters on each side, constructed from yellow sandstone blocks. Its walls reach a height of 23 meters and were originally decorated with elaborate marble cladding and polychrome stucco reliefs. The interior features a tripartite cella (sanctuary) with a central podium and two side chambers, while the exterior is marked by four massive columns that once supported a monumental portico.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located approximately 3.3 kilometers from the Petra Visitor Center. Access is through the Siq, past the Treasury, and along the full length of the Colonnaded Street. It is situated at the end of the sacred precinct (Temenos), immediately before the ascent to the Monastery. The terrain is flat, paved with ancient stones, and accessible by foot or electric cart.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Built in the late 1st century BC during the reign of Nabataean King Obodas III or Aretas IV, the temple was dedicated to Dushara, the chief Nabataean deity. Unlike most structures in Petra, it was built using independent masonry techniques rather than being carved into cliffs. Wooden beams (cedar and juniper) were integrated into the stone courses to provide structural flexibility during earthquakes.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk through the monumental Temenos Gate and inspect the 23-meter-high walls from the surrounding plaza. While entry to the inner sanctuary is restricted to protect the fragile archaeology, the exterior architectural details and massive podium remain visible. Photography is most effective from the base of the structure to emphasize its vertical scale.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The temple provides limited shade within its massive wall shadows. It is situated directly adjacent to the Basin area, which contains the park's primary restaurant, museum, and restroom facilities. 4G/5G cellular coverage is consistently available in this open section of the valley.

Best Time to Visit

The site is best viewed in the late morning (10:00–12:00) when the sun illuminates the northern facade and the interior sanctuary details. For milder temperatures, visits should occur in March through May or September through November.

Facts & Legends

The name "Qasr al-Bint" translates to "Castle of the Pharaoh's Daughter," originating from a local Bedouin legend that a Pharaoh promised his daughter's hand in marriage to the engineer who could successfully bring water to the desert temple.